King James Version
What Does 1 John 2:4 Mean?
“He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.”
Context
2
And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world.
3
And hereby we do know that we know him, if we keep his commandments.
4
He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him.
5
But whoso keepeth his word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in him.
6
He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to walk, even as he walked.
Topics in This Verse
Commentary
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary**20. wilt thou know--**"Vain" men are not willing to know, since they have no wish to "do" the will of God. James beseeches such a one to lay aside his perverse unwillingness to know what is palpable to all who are willing to do.
**vain--**who deceivest thyself with a delusive hope, resting on an unreal faith.
**without works--**The Greek, implies separate from the works [Alford] which ought to flow from it if it were real.
**is dead--**Some of the best manuscripts read, "is idle," that is, unavailing to effect what you hope, namely, to save you.
Robert Jamieson, A.R. Fausset, David Brown. Public Domain.
Historical Context
This verse is found in the book of 1 John. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.
Theological Significance
1 John 2:4 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Cross-References
Verses related to 1 John 2:4
Cross-references from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge